I. Psych yourself up--Be confident!
II. In the Morning
A. Set your alarm with enough time to get to the exam without worrying
B. Have the proper materials
1. 2 pencils/pens
2. eraser
3. calculator and spare battery (if necessary)
4. any books or notes that are allowed
C. Glance over your notes
D. Relax immediately before the test (Have a cup of coffee, read a newspaper)
E. Avoid conversations about the subject matter, it can throw you off balance
F. Don't study the last hour before the test
G. Eat something light to give you energy
III. Get to the exam room early enough to:
A. Get a good seat
1. Blackboard is in view
2. Clock is in view
3. Light is adequate
4. Distracting people are not near you
B. Glance over your notes one last time
C. Relax for a second. Take slow, deep breathes
IV. Handle Test Anxiety
A. Its natural. Just accept it. Remember: some anxiety is good for motivation.
B. If you have too much anxiety:
1. Take your mind off self-defeating thoughts
a. Before the test:
(1) Picture your summary notes and review
(2) Think briefly about the relaxed aftermath
(3) Take several deep breaths and concentrate on relaxing your whole body
b. During the test, think about the test items, not about how you are doing
2. If anxiety interferes regularly, you may want to schedule an appointment
with the Counseling Center to join one of their test anxiety workshops
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